Authors:Hakan Eygü, M. Suphi ÖzçomakFirst page: 1Abstract: The sample of the study was formed using simple random sampling, ranked set sampling, extreme ranked set sampling and median ranked set sampling. At the end of this process, the researcher created Hotelling’s T2 control charts, a multivariate statistical process control method. The performances of SRS, RSS, ERSS and MRSS sampling methods were compared to one another using these control charts. A simulation was performed to see the average run-length values for Hotelling’s T2 control charts, and these findings were also used for the comparison of the sampling performances.At the end of the study, the researcher formed a sample using median ranked set sampling and created the Hotelling’s T2 control chart. As a result of this operation, the researcher found that there was an out-of-control signal in the process, while there was no such signal in other sampling methods. When the average run-length values obtained from Hotelling’s T2 control charts were compared, it was seen that a shift in the process was detected by the ranked set sampling earlier, when compared to other sampling methods. This paper it can be said that the methods used are unique to the literature because they are applied to multivariate data.PubDate: 2017-12-14DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p1Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Jen-Sheng Liao, Charles S. ChienFirst page: 11Abstract: This paper empirically investigates whether emptiness (according to the Madhyamaka school) has a positive association with the intuitive judgment that results from the eight consciousnesses (according to the Vijnanavada school). A questionnaire-based quantitative approach was used to collect data from 157 professional spirit mediums. The results show that emptiness is significantly correlated with pure brightness and that pure brightness is, in turn, is significantly associated with intuitive judgment. Therefore, this paper argues that emptiness can improve or enhance the eight consciousnesses in making moral decisions. Finally, for the gap between moral judgment and action, this research provides new insight by asserting that this gap must have existed a priori.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p11Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Ajith SundaramFirst page: 23Abstract: Social media was started with the intention of expelling the darkness from the lives of people by way of sharing knowledge, networking and communicating with near and dear. It all started with the purpose of imparting its benefits to all and making it user friendly. But the liberation of the down trodden, intended to voice their opinions, was turned into a hysterical chaos given the liberal mindedness of the people. What started off as a source of knowledge turned people into gadget freaks, attention seeking, financial and societal deficits. Given the nature of social media combined with the need to be social has turned it into a platform to mirror the human’s self-image. The world has become a ball of information enabling people to never look or stop anywhere. The world is alive and networked 24/7. The digitalization of media turned out to be a flourishing business, especially through social media, smartphones, tablets and apps. A few billion people are always online and it is expected that heaps of devices and sensors will be available on the web soon.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p23Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Feng LiFirst page: 40Abstract: In this paper, we consider a class of portfolio selection problems with cardinality and minimum buy-in threshold constraints in real-life which can be formulated as mixed-integer quadratic programming (MIQP). Two reformulation methods that generate the same tight continuous relaxation of original problem are compared in the context under the branch-and-bound algorithm, one is the Perspective Reformulation and another is the Lift-and-Convexification Reformulation (LCR). Computational results show that the (PC) is more competitive than the (LCR) method in terms of computing time and nodes in MIQP solver CPLEX 12.7, what's more, this outperformance becomes more obvious as the size of instances grows.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p40Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Munther Mohd. HabibFirst page: 48Abstract: Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man portrays the plight of 'blacks' in America and is a testimony to the fact that the negroes feel disillusioned in a world which is dominated by the white oppressors. Moreover, it is my assertion in the paper that the journey of the un-named hero is a journey from innocence to awareness. The protagonist at the end comes to realize the duplicity of the whites and through his experiences has been successful to convey his individuality.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p48Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Liping Zhi, Yanfei MaFirst page: 54Abstract: Based on relevant literature and theoretical consideration on management for patent resources, a theory of inter-enterprise collaborative management for patent resources (ICMPR) based on multi-agent was proposed. We put forward 4 main function modules, including collaborative recommendation, collaborative analysis, collaborative application and system server management, to support ICMPR. The ICMPR can be good to solve those tough and important problems, such as patent cross licensing among enterprises, early warning analysis of patents, collaborative technology innovation and other issues. The ICMPR can provide enterprises with practical methodology, and improve the overall competitiveness of world manufacturing industry.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p54Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Hardi WarsonoFirst page: 59Abstract: The border region is currently still very identical to the "limitations" so almost all border regions in Indonesia have nearly the same issue namely welfare gaps to the Community border as a result of the limitations of the various issues of basic infrastructure, education, health issues to social economic problems communities are still largely dependent on neighboring countries. In the field of education is known for all education jargon that became the Foundation of the movement the fulfillment of education for all. In order to achieve the goals of national education the flattens, quality, relevant and efficient as mandated by legislation of the national education system the number 20 in 2003, where special education and special services (PK-LK) need very basic education gets special attention. A labor of Indonesia (TKI) at the boundary of the country generally citizens of the entrants in the Emergency Department and is busy with his household economic activities. The condition implies less serious handling education for their child. This problem is compounded by the limited educational facilities at the border. To address this movement of strange education boundary is required.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p59Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Fatin Najiha M. Tammili, Zainalabidin Mohamed, Rika TeranoFirst page: 71Abstract: Poverty has been one of the pressing issues in developing countries like Malaysia. Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) was the first microcredit institution and one of the dominant players contributing to the poverty eradication in Malaysia through the provision of microcredit to the poor. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the microcredit program on poverty eradication as experienced by AIM microcredit recipients in Selangor. Systematic random sampling was conducted to sample 326 Sahabat (from this point onwards the AIM microcredit recipients will be known as Sahabat) from February to April 2016. Descriptive analysis and multiple regression were used to analyse the data distribution and relationship between the dependent variable as measured by income-investment ratio and independent variables represented by socio-demographic as well as other related variables necessary to achieve the study objective. The findings of the study show that most of Sahabat were married (95.7 percent) and have secondary educated (72.7 percent). In terms of income distribution, most Sahabat earn less than RM1,500.00. Nevertheless, all Sahabat showed positive income changes after receiving different microcredit program schemes from AIM. Multiple regression analysis have identified two variables which are the family workers and hired workers where both significantly influenced the income-investment ratio after joining the microcredit program. This study affirmed the effectiveness of the AIM program in poverty eradication among the poor. AIM also plays an important role in meeting the financial needs of Sahabat which is necessary to enhance their microenterprises.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p71Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Chotewit Pongsermpol, Prapatpong UpalaFirst page: 79Abstract: Over the last decade, trends of adaptive reuse of old buildings turned into hotels have been popular in Thailand, especially in Bangkok. Adaptive Reuse Heritage Building converted to the Hotel Building, AR-HB-hotel, effects changes and impacts in several aspects. There have been established criteria for substantial renovation, business investment and assessment of the value of heritage buildings but no concern has been paid to the surrounding community impact. The objective is to study four issues of AR-HB-hotel focused on (1) physical, (2) economic, (3) value changes, and (4) social impacts. The research method is qualitative approach with case study type. ‘Bangkok Story Hostel’ was selected as a representative case for AR-HB-hotel. This small 3-storey heritage hotel is located in a traditional trading district on Songward Street, Sampanthawong district, Bangkok. For the data collection, building history and project background, as well as physical and economic changes were collected from secondary data, surveys, and in-depth interview. Value change and social impact were collected from in-depth interview and questionnaire. The results showed that the level of physical, economic, and value changes of this building rose up, while the level of social impact stays the same or decreased a little less than the level before the renovation. This research may not be generalized wholly to another case with a significantly different context, but the four main approaches for examining physical, economic, value, and social issues and the procedure used in this study can be a guideline for future studies of AR-HB-hotel’ changes and impacts. PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p79Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Mohammed I. M. Hamdan, Mohamed Shawky Abd El-Aal, Abidin Abdul Hamid KandilFirst page: 95Abstract: The current study attempts to highlight the stages of Palestine’s joining the World Trade Organization (WTO) and steps that should be followed by Palestine to join the World Trade Organization from the observer to the member. It also clarifies how Palestine joins the World Trade Organization as a state and then as a customs territory. The problem of this study lies in determining the legal effects of Palestine's joining the World Trade Organization as a state on the one hand and as a customs territory on the other. The study aims at clarifying the stages that Palestine will go through in case of joining the World Trade Organization, the steps that Palestine should take to join the World Trade Organization, and the mechanism that should be followed when Palestine joins the World Trade Organization as a state, and then as a customs territory. The study concluded that Palestine must join the World Trade Organization as a customs territory as soon as possible in order to avoid any discussion about the final legal status of its territories according to the Oslo Accords. PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p95Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Khaled Abdulaziz Alsalloum, Mohamed Salman TayieFirst page: 102Abstract: Objective: The objective is to study the present and future of Kuwaiti-Iranian relations through the determinants of the geographical, social, economic and political relationship and the reflection of that relation on the security of the Gulf. The study also examines the future of Gulf security in light of the Kuwaiti-Iranian relations.Method: The study used the approach of the national interest because it is linked to the theory of power, according to Hans Morgenthau, since power is the goal of the foreign policy maker, a major objective of the state in its external relations. Where the political interactions of Kuwait with the Gulf States and Iran is considered in accordance with its national interest.Results: The study concluded that the Kuwaiti-Iranian relations were positive at most stages and that security is one of the most important problems for small countries, but it is capable of playing a role in regional security. The future of Gulf security is linked to the relations of Gulf countries and Iran with major countries and for Kuwait specifically in its relationship with the United States of America and Western Countries through the security and military agreements.Conclusion: The study shows that the State of Kuwait as a small country played a major role through its political and geographical determinants in resolving regional disputes and conflicts.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p102Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Andi Estetiono, Badaruddin Badaruddin, Moh. Sofian Asmirza, Rujiman RujimanFirst page: 112Abstract: The purpose of this study is to analyze and explain the influence of public participation and the development of transportation infrastructure towards sustainable transportation and regional development in the city of Medan in North Sumatra Indonesia. This research was conducted by an explanatory approach using primary data with purposive sampling technique method based on criteria of 300 respondents. Data analysis techniques used was SEM (Structural Equation Modeling). The results of this study indicate that public participation has positive influence on sustainable transportation in the city of Medan, the development of transportation infrastructure has positive effect on sustainable transportation at the city of Medan, public participation has positive effect on the regional development in the city of Medan, the development of transportation infrastructure has positive effect on the regional development in the city of Medan, sustainable transportation has positive effect on the regional development in the city of Medan, public participation has indirect influence to the regional development through sustainable transportation in the city of Medan, and the development of transportation infrastructure has indirect influence to the regional development through sustainable transportation in the city of Medan, North Sumatra Indonesia.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p112Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Chanon Tunprawat, Yanin Rugwongwan, Wichitra SinghirunnusornFirst page: 125Abstract: This research is to develop the products that can communicate environmental information to the user. The study investigated design styles of eco-information and impact on user’s emotions which can be used as data for product design enhancing environmental perception and encouraging behavioural change. The research aimed to 1) study design styles of eco-information and impact on user’s emotions 2) analyse the relationship of design styles and impact on user’s emotions effective in promoting environmental behaviour change. Ten-second video clips of seven design styles were presented through a computer and a projector and perception evaluation forms were employed. The sample included 60 students from the Faculty of Architecture and Design, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand. The results showed that the most effective design style could encourage emotions in the aspects of interest, excitement and preference. This study found that using living creatures to encourage emotions was the most effective attribute. Additionally, giving detailed information through the use of texts and graphs could encourage effectiveness in promoting behavioural change towards energy and resource consumption.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p125Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Xiangyang Bian, Meng NiuFirst page: 136Abstract: Chinese Water and Land painting contains lots of figure costume modeling, providing intuitive and vivid image data for the study of ancient costumes. It is a new medium for the study of Chinese ancient costumes. This paper analyzes the feasibility and methodology for Water and Land paintings in the study of the Ming Dynasty. With the Ming costumes in the Water and Land Paintings, this paper discusses the shape, color, texture and fabric patterns of the ancient dresses. The feasibility of using Water and Land Paintings to study ancient costumes is further analyzed in this paper. This paper emphasizes the importance of ancient dresses in Water and Land Painting for the study of its wearing effect, and the specific methods of research that are put forward.PubDate: 2017-12-26DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p136Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Mohammad Yacoub, Mohamed Shawki, Mohe eldin Kasem, Abdeen Abd ElhamidFirst page: 147Abstract: Two decades post the Cold-War; the World has witnessed a systematic revival of a practice long thought to be extinct- territory administration via an international body to act as a government for running the state/territory. The most prominent examples were the United Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) and the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET).Various criticisms were directed to the International Administrations of Territories; the most prominent was mandating this Administration Authority complete power in running the Legislative, Executive and Judiciary authorities where its decisions are not being subject to monitoring or accountability. Yet, such decisions were mostly in violation of the International law which undermined the core principles of democratic governments, the rule of law and human rights as being the corner stones of International peace and security.This study aims at analyzing the legitimacy of forming international administrations as well as scrutinizing the legal restrictions and commitments thereof. The ramifications of any violations of such restrictions and commitments (The International Human Right Law and The International Humanitarian Law) should be holding these administrations and its members accountable internationally.PubDate: 2017-12-27DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p147Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Sridara Tipian, Antika SawadsriFirst page: 152Abstract: The conventional belief of universal design objective is to benefits for few people with high cost of investment. It is, therefore, considered as unprofitable project, although Thai government has well developed laws according to the concept. A university is an organization which is affected by this concept, because it should be place where welcoming people of differences and opening opportunities for all to access education with equality. However, it is not easy for a private university to invest in building or modifying universal design environment due to surplus cost of implementation. The objectives of this research are to: 1) study factors in universal design implementation; and 2) analyze importance level of executives in deciding to invest in universal design implementation or modification. The research procedure and qualitative data collection was conducted with 59 informants by face-to-face semi-structured interview. The informants of this research comprised 56 physical users, and 3 executives and building managers. The research results show that factors affecting decision on environmental modification based on universal design principles in private universities are: 1) social structure, 2) understanding and recognition of human values; and 3) business image promotion. However, probable factors not facilitating universal design implementation in universities were: 1) investment budget, 2) architectural Aesthetic, and 3) utilization. Additionally, background of the interviewees is one of reinforcing factors for decision on universal design investment.PubDate: 2017-12-27DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p152Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Hiromi Sakakibara, Shuichi Ishida, Takashi Natori, Nobuaki MinatoFirst page: 160Abstract: This paper proposes an allocation model of control rights between entrepreneurs and investors to properly manage venture companies. The basic concept of this model involves reflecting the company’s future market value in its control rights to entrepreneurs as an incentive, while securing investors’ minimum monetary requirements. Previous studies reveal that entrepreneurs’ control rights gradually dilute as the monetary requirement increases in multi-staged financing; therefore, it is necessary to establish a fundamental rule for control rights allocations in initial contracts. This model also has the capability to allocate cash flow rights, and the potential capability to justify its premium.PubDate: 2017-12-27DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p160Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Palapan KampanFirst page: 169Abstract: This study assesses economic, legal, and environmental conditions that Thai rubber farmers face, and evaluates actions they can take to increase incomes. Statistical analyses determine relationships between prices of oil, natural and synthetic rubber. Pearson correlation tests found a strong positive relationship (r = 0.887) between the price of Brent crude and Thai ribbed smoked sheets, and a moderate positive relationship between price changes in Brent and synthetic rubber (r = 0.648). Regression analysis showed Brent oil price is a good predictor of natural rubber prices. Moderate to strong positive relationships were also found between natural rubber price and gross domestic product of Japan, China, and the United States. Criminal antitrust behavior in rubber industries appeared to interfere with normal pricing in rubber markets. No significant bivariate correlation was found between rainfall in Thailand and natural rubber price, production, or export although flooding and other environmental issues clearly affected rubber farms. A survey of options showed Thai rubber farmers can improve livelihoods best through collective purchase and use of new technologies, and by integrating into downstream supply chain industries. At very least, farmers are urged to abandon monocrop methods and supplement incomes with fruit, fish, livestock, or pigs. stment budget, 2) architectural Aesthetic, and 3) utilization. Additionally, background of the interviewees is one of reinforcing factors for decision on universal design investment.PubDate: 2017-12-27DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p169Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)

Authors:Saul Rick Fernandez Hurtado, Luz Angela Martinez MartinezFirst page: 183Abstract: The main objective of this research is to identify the influence of the productivity and competitiveness level of Colombian firms in the development of Asian market. The approach used was through descriptive and empirical analysis, with respect to measured variables, which helps the understanding of what firms require the skills of productivity. As a result of this article, a need was obtained at the corporate and governmental level, that production line should have a change to the know-how (macro), which is a necessity for international business success. The research allows to conclude aspects relevant to business activities, where the correlation of strengthening firms-government-university, is producing a negative effect, and through the psycho-entrepreneurial acquisition.PubDate: 2017-12-27DOI: 10.5539/ass.v14n1p183Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 1 (2017)